The tourist’s guide to Australian travel

With its remarkable scenery, exotic
wildlife and beautiful weather, Australia is regularly touted as one of
world’s great travel destinations. No matter whether you want to relax by the
beach, explore the outback, or experience city life in some of the most
desirable places to live on the planet, Australia has something for everyone
to enjoy.

In spite of Australia’s somewhat isolated
location, you can almost always secure cheap
flights to Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane or one of the other
country’s major international destinations too. But what about once you’re
there?

Those with
more time on their hands might want to hire a car or camper van and explore
Australia via its well-connected roads. There are campsites aplenty and
several quaint towns worth visiting in-between the country’s major draws.

When to visit

Spring
to summer (October to March): The summer months
are typically the best time to visit coastal areas such as Sydney and
Melbourne because the weather will be warm and dry. The tropical humidity of
the north will be too wet, stormy and sticky for most.

Autumn
to winter (April to September): Although winters
are generally mild throughout the southern states, this is the perfect
opportunity to explore Australia’s ‘Red Centre’ or swim in the balmy seas of
Queensland.

Food and drink

From comforting pub grub to world-class
cuisine, Australia has food and drink to suit all palates. Most ingredients
will be procured locally, so expect fresh seafood, sustainably-sourced meat
and organic produce to be the heroes on your plate.

Even in the advent of more and more fine
dining options, Australia’s favourite fare has got to be the humble barbeque,
which is sure to feature steak, prawns and beer.

Essential things to see and do

Travel the Great Ocean Road – This scenic stretch of surf-pounded
coastline is within driving distance of Melbourne and can be done in just a
couple of days.

Sightseeing in Sydney – Head to Mrs Macquarie’s Chair for an epic
view of both the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Dive the Great Barrier Reef – The world’s largest coral reef system is
best experienced through diving and sailing trips to the Whitsunday Islands.

Watch an AFL game – Expect things to get feisty at the Melbourne Cricket
Ground during a game of ‘Aussie rules’, which should always be accompanied by
a half-time pie.